Winter Dance Party 2018

WINTER DANCE PARTY HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday-Friday: 8a-4p • Saturday: 9:30a-4p • Doors reopen nightly at 6:30p

stay and

EXPLORE at the shore

75

y Anniversar

th

DESTINATION

Edition

:

CLEAR LAKE l Visitor Guide of

Your 2018 Officia

mmerce

a Chamber of Co

the Clear Lake Are

Clear Lake Iowa

IOWA

AWARD WINNER

REp EXPoLurO free ap

plan your visit y

where to eat, play, & sta Activities Guide

Camping

Events Calendar

Fishing

Family Fun

& more!

www.clearlakeiowa.com

Download our app & grab our Visitor’s Guide TODAY! www.clearlakeiowa.com • 800-285-5338

/clearlakeiowa

@clearlakeiowa

@visitclearlake

A tradition continues Dating back to its modest beginnings in 1979, the Winter Dance Party has long been known for its traditions. Attending the event itself is a tradition that many attendees hold dear, some making the annual pilgrimage from across the country to celebrate with us for 20 years or more. From dressing up in period costumes at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on Friday night to gathering at the Best Western for the British Buddy Holly Society Luncheon, many memories have been made and wonderful friendships have formed.

that the Winter Dance Party has become synonymous with. Brenda Lee, Bobby Rydell, Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon, Linda Gail Lewis, Albert Lee, Jay Siegel’s Tokens, Vito Picone’s The Elegants, Bobby Cochran, Austin Allsup, and many more will take us back to the 1950’s with their hits and tributes to the musicians that have performed before them.

Again, welcome fans, friends and family members – by being here, you are a part of both Surf Ballroom and rock and roll history, and are helping us to ensure that these many traditions live on. Please make plans to join us next year for the 60th Anniversary of the 1959 Winter Dance Party, January 30-February 2, 2019!

During this year’s event, we will share a toast and honor “The Hatter,” originator of the Buddy Holly Tribute and a friend to so many longtime Winter Dance Party attendees, who passed away on September 27, 2017. Darryl “Hatter” Hensley has long been credited for his visionary efforts in creating and building an internationally renowned event. Thank you, Darryl, for a tradition that we hope lasts forever! We at the Surf are humbled to honor and continue this legacy, and will miss his friendship.

Rave On,

Another tradition…GREAT Rock ‘n Roll! We are excited about this year’s entertainment lineup, which once again promises a celebration of rock ‘n roll history

Jeff Nicholas President

Laurie Lietz Executive Director

GET YOUR OFFICIAL 2018 WINTER DANCE PARTY SHIRT TODAY!

Surf Ballroom Gift Shop • Mon-Fri 8a-4p, Sat 9:30a-4p and During Evening Events

CONTENTS Welcome 3 Schedule of Events 4 Performer Information 8 Ritchie Valens Family Luncheon 18 Remember the Hatter 19 About the Surf Ballroom 24 About the Winter Dance Party 25 Acknowledgments 26

Shirts • Jackets • Posters • Hats • Drinkware • Koozies • Jewelry Photos • Postcards • Books • much more!

3

Courtesy Shuttle Service 27

SCHEDULE WEDNESDAY, JanUARY 31 “RAVE ON XIV” ART EXHIBIT Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10a-5p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Stanton Gallery 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

MOVIE: THE REAL BUDDY HOLLY STORY ROCKUMENTARY Showings: Wednesday-Saturday at 3p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Sukup Performing Arts Wing, 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

ROCKIN’ N BOPPIN’ RECORD SHOW Hours: 12noon-7p Location: Best Western Holiday Lodge, 2023 7th Ave N Blarney, Opal & Veranda Rooms Admission: FREE Open to General Public

WINTER DANCE PARTY FAMILY SOCK HOP Scheduled to Appear: Johnny Rogers: History of Rock and Roll Doors: 6:30p Admission: $10 Adv / $13 Door (separate ticket)

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 ROCKIN’ N BOPPIN’ RECORD SHOW Hours: 8:30a-7p Location: Best Western Holiday Lodge, 2023 7th Ave N Blarney, Opal & Veranda Rooms Admission: FREE Open to General Public

WINTER SCHOOL DANCE PARTY Enjoy great live entertainment by “Buddy’s Buddies” while raising money for a good cause. All admissions support the Winter Dance Party Scholarships & Awards Program.

Hours: 1-3p Location: EB Stillman Auditorium/ Clear Lake Middle School, 1601 3rd Ave N Admission: $5

DANCE LESSONS Fifties style dance lessons hosted by instructors Amy Hopkins, Margaret Majerczyk & Friends - for singles and couples alike.

Hours: 9:30-11:30a Location: Surf Ballroom Dance Floor Admission: FREE for WDP Ticket holders; $5 general public

MOVIE: LA BAMBA Showings: 1:15p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Sukup Performing Arts Wing, 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

“RAVE ON XIV” ART EXHIBIT The Rave On XII Art Exhibit will include various art works by regional artists. All of the images depict scenes from the baby boomer era.

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10a-5p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Stanton Gallery 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE MOVIE: STAND BY ME Showings: Thursday-Saturday 11a Location: Lake Theatre, 4 N 4th St Admission: FREE for WDP Ticket holders; Open to general public

MOVIE: THE REAL BUDDY HOLLY STORY ROCKUMENTARY Showings: Wednesday-Saturday at 3p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Sukup Performing Arts Wing, 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

4

WINTER DANCE PARTY Scheduled to Appear: Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon Jay Siegel’s Tokens Austin Allsup • Rosie & The Rivets Doors: 6:30p

SCHEDULE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2 ROCKIN’ N BOPPIN’ RECORD SHOW Hours: 8:30a-7p Location: Best Western Holiday Lodge, 2023 7th Ave N Blarney, Opal & Veranda Rooms Admission: FREE Open to General Public

ROCKIN’ THE ART OF THE ’50S AND ’60S What was going on in the art world while Buddy Holly and his friends were tearing up the music world?

Guided Tours: 11a, 1p & 2p Location: MacNider Art Museum, 303 2nd St SE, Mason City Admission: FREE

SURF BALLROOM ROCKIN’ KIDS SHOW Annual show that features programming designed for K-3 students including the Winter Dance Party and rock ‘n roll history, live music and dancing.

Hours: 9-11a Location: Surf Ballroom Admission: CLOSED TO GENERAL PUBLIC

(INVITATION ONLY)

AFTERNOON LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Entertainment: The Mockingbirds Hours: 1-4p Location: Surf Ballroom Lounge Admission: FREE for WDP Ticket holders; $5 general public

“RAVE ON XIV” ART EXHIBIT Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10a-5p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Stanton Gallery 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

WEDDING/VOW RENEWAL CEREMONY Rock ‘n roll fans may get married or renew their vows at the Surf Ballroom at this time. Cake & champagne are served following the brief ceremony.

Hours: 2:30p Location: Surf Ballroom Dance Floor Register in advance with Denni Sue at ericksn1@cltel.net.

29TH ANNUAL BRITISH BUDDY HOLLY SOCIETY LUNCHEON Hours: 10:30a-3:30p Location: Best Western Holiday Lodge, 2023 7th Ave N Advance Reservations Required.

Admission: SOLD OUT

MOVIE: THE REAL BUDDY HOLLY STORY ROCKUMENTARY Showings: Wednesday-Saturday at 3p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Sukup Performing Arts Wing, 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

MOVIE: STAND BY ME Showings: Thursday-Saturday 11a Location: Lake Theatre, 4 N 4th St Admission: FREE for WDP Ticket holders; Open to general public

“LIVE FROM THE RED CARPET” Broadcast locally through CL Vision Hours: 6-8p

MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY Featuring DJ Randy Chestermann Celebrating the Mad Hatter with memorabilia, drink specials, sharing of memories and more!

Time: 11a Location: Surf District Rock ‘n Roll Grill, 619 Buddy Holly Place Admission: FREE 5

WINTER DANCE PARTY Scheduled to Appear: The Holy Rocka Rollaz • Bobby Cochran Band Vito Picone’s The Elegants • The Tailfins Wear your rockin’ duds and get your dancing shoes ready for our Vintage Style Show and Dance Contest.

Sign up at the information desk prior to event.

Doors: 6:30p

SCHEDULE SaturDAY, FEBRUARY 3 ROCKIN’ N BOPPIN’ RECORD SHOW Hours: 8:30a-7p Location: Best Western, Clear Lake Blarney, Opal & Veranda Rooms Admission: FREE Open to General Public

RITCHIE VALENS FAMILY LUNCHEON Join the Valens family to visit, enjoy a meal and dance to the music of Richie Lee and special guest Tony Halsrud from the Fabulous 50’s Band Doors Open: 11a Location: Best Western Holiday Lodge, 2023 7th Ave N Diamond Ballroom Advance Reservations Required Admission: $20

MEMORIAL SITE TOUR Escorted tour via motor coach to the farm field north of Clear Lake, Iowa where the ill-fated airplane came to rest. 75-90 minutes. Visitors are encouraged to dress in warm layers - a 1/4 mile walk is required.

Departure Time: 10a Location: Motor coach leaves Surf Ballroom Lobby Admission: $8; Limited Availability

MOVIE: THE REAL BUDDY HOLLY STORY ROCKUMENTARY Showings: Wednesday-Saturday at 3p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Sukup Performing Arts Wing, 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

“RAVE ON XIV” ART EXHIBIT The Rave On XII Art Exhibit will include various art works by regional artists. All of the images depict scenes from the baby boomer era.

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10a-5p Location: Clear Lake Arts Center Stanton Gallery 17 S 4th St Admission: FREE

WINTER DANCE PARTY Scheduled to Appear: Brenda Lee Bobby Rydell Albert Lee & Friends Linda Gail Lewis Danny B Harvey & Annie Marie Lewis Doors: 6:30p

MOVIE: STAND BY ME Showings: Thursday-Saturday 11a Location: Lake Theatre, 4 N 4th St Admission: FREE for WDP Ticket holders; Open to general public

THANK YOU!

(641) 357-2283 WWW.DEANSNYDERCONST.COM

Proud to be Family-Owned & Operated for 60 Years  General Construction  Design-Build

Pritchard Auto - Britt • Pritchard Auto - Garner Chrysler of Forest City • Forest City Auto Center

 Construction Management CLEAR LAKE, IOWA ANKENY, IOWA

6

www.pritchards.com

Rockin’ N Boppin’ Giant 4 Day Record Show Best Western Clear Lake, IA

(Junction I-35 & Hwy 18) Opal, Veranda & Blarney Rooms

FREE ADMISSION

Featuring Sean & Tim from Kanesville Kollectibles

C.D.’s, 33’s, 45’s & 78’s

Wed., Jan. 31 Noon - 7 p.m.

Free Admission Early Bird Sale

Thurs., Fri. & Sat. Feb. 1 - 3 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Open to the public

For more information call Matt

(641) 251-1974

(Also buying records from the public at this time)

WednesDAY, January 31 Lineup Johnny Rogers

When he was very young, Johnny Rogers’ father gave him his first guitar.

He had no interest in playing until he heard Buddy Holly sing “Rave On.” From that moment, he knew what he wanted to be in life – someone like Buddy. He was self-taught and learned all styles of music. Rogers made his debut on stage at the Off Broadway Lounge, and he was a big draw immediately. Rogers started his own band and show at age 21, and he continues to delight audiences around the country today.

ThursDAY, February 1 Lineup Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon

Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon is the singer of some of the most memorable ’50s and ’60s rock & roll hits including his four biggest-selling singles: “Tallahassee Lassie,” “Way Down Yonder In New Orleans,” “Palisades Park,” and “Action!”

At the age of 19, Cannon was an overnight sensation all over the world. When his debut album, “The Explosive! Freddy Cannon,” hit #1 in England, he cemented his fame in the British Isles. He was featured on the top television shows in America and England, including Shindig!, Hullabaloo, American Bandstand, Midnight Special, Where the Action Is, and The Mike Douglas Show. Freddy was such a hit with Dick Clark, that he became the most frequent guest star on American Bandstand, with a record 110 appearances.

This is Cannon’s 7th appearance at the Winter Dance Party event.

Jay Siegel’s The Tokens

The multitalented Jay Siegel is best known for his soaring falsetto on the classic mega-hit, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.”

In 1955, Siegel’s lifelong friend Neil Sedaka formed The Linc-Tones. With Siegel joining a year later, the group name was changed to The Tokens and they recorded “While I Dream” and “I Love My Baby.”

8

In 1958, Sedaka left The Tokens to begin his amazing solo career.

A reformed Tokens group emerged in 1961 with Mitch and Phil Margo joining Hank Medress and Siegel, who in the meantime had formed the group Darrell and the Oxfords. The group quickly attained prominence with the hit song, “Tonight I Fell In Love.”

In October 1961, they recorded what has become one of the biggest hit songs of all time, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.”

Other major hits for The Tokens include, “He’s in Town,” “I Hear Trumpets Blow” and “Portrait of My Love.”

The Tokens enjoyed success recording commercial jingles in the 1970s and 1980s for such products as Benson and Hedges cigarettes (“Silly Millimeter Longer”), Pan American Airlines (“Pan Am Makes the Going Great”), and Clairol hair products (“She Lets Her Hair Down”).

Over the years, The Tokens have shared the stage with such greats as The Beatles, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard.

Austin Allsup

Austin Allsup was recently a top-10 finalist on NBC’s “The Voice” and was an instant hit at the 2017 Winter Dance Party. His father, Tommy, played guitar with Buddy Holly during the 1959 Winter Dance Party Tour and was a regular Surf Ballroom favorite until his death in 2017.

Rosie & the rivets

Christine Murphy, aka “Rosie,” co-founded Rosie & The Rivets in late 2016 with the goal to create an act that faithfully conveys the music and visual excitement of the 1950s and early 1960s (the Atomic Age). Other band members include Frank Canino (vocals/lead guitar), Dann Morr (bass/ vocals) and Sam Barsi (drums). This is their first appearance at a Winter Dance Party event.

FriDAY, February 2 Lineup The HOly Rocka Rollaz

Take an authentic trip back to the fantastic 50s with The Holy Rocka Rollaz!

If it’s the classic early rock ‘n roll and rockabilly of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash (and many more!) that you want played just the way those legends played it…you have found your dream band!

Minnesota’s own Holy Rocka Rollaz bring back the sound, the look, the memories and the nostalgia of one of America’s most treasured eras.

There’s nothing but PURE EARLY AMERICAN ROCK ‘n ROLL about them.

Bobby Cochran Band Bobby Cochran is the nephew of the late rock legend Eddie Cochran, and they were inducted into the International Rockabilly Hall of Fame together in 2017, the first time two family members have achieved that honor. Bobby Cochran has performed with numerous bands, including Steppenwolf, the Flying Burrito Brothers and Leon Russell.

9

Vito Picone’s The Elegants

The Elegants, still based in Staten Island, New York, were formed in 1956 by their lead singer, Vito Picone, who also co-wrote their #1 hit single “Little Star.”

The record sold over 2-1/2 million copies world-wide in 1958 on ABC Paramount’s subsidiary label “APT.” The group was named the #1 R&B and the #1 Pop artists of the year and adorned the cover of Cashbox Magazine receiving their gold record.

The group toured throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico in the late fifties and early sixties along with the early legends of their time until the U.S. Army and The Beatles changed the direction of their lives and careers.

Aside from doubling their original record sales since 1958, the group has received the Million-Aires award for “Little Star” airing 1 million times on the radio . Their song has been immortalized in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, was featured in numerous movies, and also in HBO’s blockbuster series, “The Sopranos.”

They have appeared 8 times at Radio City Music Hall, were among the initial Doo-Wop artists to be presented at Carnegie Hall, the first Doo-Wop group ever to perform at Lincoln Center, and Vito’s cameo appearance in the Oscar winning movie “Goodfellas” (Vito is in the Billy Batts scene at the end of the bar), top the list of their many outstanding accomplishments.

The Tailf ins Hailing from the Quad Cities area, The Tailfins perform all the fun songs you remember from the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s just as you remember them. From Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry and Roy Orbison to the Beach Boys, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Tom Petty and Motown, The Tailfins bring energy and excitement to the greatest songs of rock ‘n roll!

10

SaturDAY, February 3 Lineup Brenda Lee

With more than 100 million units of her music sold globally, Brenda Lee has been a superstar since childhood, releasing her first single when she was only 11 years old, sharing the stage of the Grand Ole Opry with Elvis Presley at 12, and watching The Beatles open for her on tour in Europe before she turned 20.

“I’m Sorry” (which has sold over 20 million copies) and “Break It To Me Gently,” “All Alone Am I,” “Losing You,” and “Emotions,” were chart toppers, while her perennial holiday classic, “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” wins new fans every year. A member of the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Country Music Hall of Fame as well as the Rockabilly Hall of Fame, Lee has been nominated for four Grammy Awards and has received both the rarely presented NARAS Governor’s Award and a Lifetime Achievement Grammy from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences.

In 1957 she hit the pop and country music charts with “Dynamite,” earning the diminutive singer the lifelong nickname Little Miss Dynamite. She went on to land a string of hits on the pop, country, R&B and easy listening charts, making her the top charting female artist of the ’60s and winning countless awards globally including Billboard magazine’s Top Female Vocalist and a place in Newsweek magazine’s “Top 20 Artists of the Past 20 Years” list.

With a string of major chart hits, sold-out performances and television propelling her throughout the ‘60s, Brenda Lee became the rare “teen idol” to translate from radio success into world-class performer in concert.

Her performances at the biggest venues of the day established her as a young performer who wowed an array of sophisicated audiences.

To date, Brenda has performed in 52 foreign countries and recorded hits in six different languages. She has served her own creative music community in Nashville on the Country Music Association’s (CMA) Board of Directors, the Board of Governors for the Nashville Chapter of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Science (NARAS) and the Nashville Board SAG/AFTRA, as well as serving the interests of hosts of charity and humanities organizations.

Now into the new millennium, Brenda Lee continues to tour in concert settings that offer audiences the “world class” performances that come only with “legend.”

Welcome to the Half Moon!

One of the last “goodies and oldies” Family owned and operated Known for great steaks, seafood, ribs, sandwiches and more!

Monday-Friday 11a-2p, 5p-close; Saturday 4:30p-close 11

Bobby Rydell

Bobby Rydell’s career spans six decades and encompasses every area of the entertainment world. His debut in the late ‘50s as a rock & roll teen idol lead to starring roles in such hit films as “Bye Bye Birdie” and plays such as “West Side Story.” Bobby has made countless network TV appearances throughout the world on shows like Ed Sullivan, Jack Benny, George Burns, Milton Berle, Perry Como and of course American Bandstand. He was also a semi regular on the Red Skelton Hour for many years. Working with the “greats” of comedy Bobby was able to develop an uncanny gift for comedy.

Bobby has earned a reputation as a classic performer. Not only is he a superb singer whose voice has gotten better over the years – he has proved to be an outstanding drummer, an agile dancer and an extremely fine actor, with an unsurpassed knack for comedy.

A polished performer at the age of 19, he was the youngest person ever to headline the famous Copacabana in New York. Bobby’s recording career earned him 34 Top 40 hits, placing him in the Top 5 artists of his era (Billboard Magazine). Bobby’s hits include million selling singles “Volare,” “Wild One,” “We Got Love,” “Kissin’ Time,” “Swingin’ School” and “Forget Him,” selling a combined total of over 25 million records.

Today Bobby enjoys a career that is full. He has a busy schedule throughout the world as a headline solo act.

Australia has welcomed him for 20 tours down under, where he continues to be a favorite performer. Bobby also performs regularly in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. For the past 25 years Bobby has also performed in over 700 shows in the must-see production called “The Golden Boys.” This is a happy, fun filled look back at a simpler time in music history with his childhood pals, Frankie Avalon and Fabian.

Bobby Rydell’s influence on popular music has been profound. When the producers of “Grease” wanted to pay tribute to the era in which the popular musical was set, they named the high school where most of the action took place “Rydell High” in his honor. Recently, Bobby appeared with Ann-Margret at The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences premiere of “Bye Bye Birdie’s” digital restoration at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre in Beverly Hills.

In 1995 his hometown of Philadelphia, PA named the street he was born “Bobby Rydell Boulevard.” The City of Philadelphia sponsored “block party” followed dedication ceremonies. Quite a tribute to a City’s favorite native son! Wildwood, NJ also has a street named for Bobby in appreciation for Bobby’s massive hit, “Wildwood Days.”

When Bobby underwent a double organ transplant. He received 75% of a liver and one kidney. His life was about to end when the generous family of a dying child saved 8 lives by organ donation. Bobby returned to the stage in Las Vegas in just 6 months, turning near tragedy to triumph. Today he is dedicated to public awareness, spreading the word to the world in his travels about the Gift of Life through organ donation.

The teen idol, now a seasoned performer, continues to perform to sell out audiences throughout the world. As a review of a recent performance put it, “Bobby Rydell is a true American music treasure.”

12

Linda Gail Lewis

Danny B Harvey

Annie Marie Lewis

Linda Gail Lewis

Like her brother Jerry Lee, Rockabilly Hall of Fame member Linda Gail Lewis soaked up the sounds of hillbilly music and rhythm and blues in the rural areas of Louisiana. When Jerry Lee began to score hits with “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and “Great Balls of Fire,” he singlehandedly lifted the family from dire poverty to a life of relative ease.

Linda Gail’s chief inspiration was Jerry Lee, but later, as the era of rock ‘n’ roll came into play, she also tuned into the sounds of Brenda Lee, Patsy Cline, and Lavern Baker.

In addition to composing material for her brother’s top-selling Smash and Mercury discs, Lewis also garnered an ASCAP award for her song “Smile, Somebody Loves You,” a top 40 country hit.

Lewis’s biggest career boost came via legendary Irish rocker Van Morrison. After a sound-check jam session, Morrison proposed a collaboration, which resulted in the 2000 Pointblank/Virgin album You Win Again.

Lewis met Rockabilly guitarist Danny B Harvey in 2014, and along with her daughter Annie Marie Lewis, cut 12 new rocking tunes which were released worldwide on an album called “Hard Rocking Woman” in 2015. The trio will perform together on Saturday night of the Winter Dance Party.

Danny & Annie

Danny B Harvey is best known as the guitarist for the super group HeadCat (a band he formed with Lemmy from Motorhead and Slim Jim Phantom from Stray Cats). Danny has also produced, recorded and performed with Wanda Jackson, Nancy Sinatra, Johnny Ramone, The Rockats, Levi Dexter and The Swing Cats.

Annie Marie Lewis is the niece of Jerry Lee Lewis, daughter of Linda Gayle Lewis and cousin of Mickey Gilley. Annie Marie Lewis has the genealogy, the roots and is a direct blood connection to the first family of rock ‘n roll. Annie has been opening shows for Jerry Lee with her mama since she was a teenager, as well as singing backups with her uncle Jerry and touring the world with mama Linda Gail. This is their second appearance at the Winter Dance Party event.

Albert Lee & Friends

Known best for his fingerstyle and hybrid picking technique, guitarist Albert Lee toured with the Crickets in 1973. Lee has worked with many famous musicians from a wide range of genres, including the likes of Emmylou Harris, Eric Clapton, Ricky Skaggs, Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings and The Everly Brothers. Albert Lee is universally recognized in music circles as one of the world’s finest, as well as one of the top rockabilly guitarists in history. In fact, Eric Clapton is on record stating that Albert Lee is “the greatest guitarist in the world.”

13

Not Fade Away...

This Winter Dance Party, we mourn the loss of one of the most important persons in the Surf Ballroom’s history. On Saturday, January 13, the Surf Ballroom family lost a beloved member when we lost Dean Snyder.

burner because the water heater was broken.

During an interview held shortly after the building reopened, Dean was asked why he purchased the Surf Ballroom. He is infamously noted for saying “My wife likes to dance; if she liked to fish, I would have bought her a fishing pole.” He and his lovely wife, Joanne, could many times be seen dancing the night away during concerts, especially the Sunday night Big Band dances.

Dean and his family came to the Surf during a time of great need, after a lack of financial resources had forced the historic Surf Ballroom to close its doors in 1994. The venue stood in a state of disrepair after building maintenance had suffered due to lack of funds. Pots and pans laid on the ballroom dance floor to catch water that leaked whenever it rained or the snow melted, causing near irreparable damage to the original dance floor.

In January, 2008, the Snyder family leased the building to the North Iowa Cultural Center and Museum for daily operations, but Dean and Joanne continued to be very involved. They were known to make an appearance at most every event and concert, where volunteers and staff were all referred to by name and greeted with a smile and a hug. Dean would joke with volunteers upon entrance that he forgot his ticket at home but that they should let him in because he knew the owner.

Restoring the venue was a massive undertaking.

Dean, along with family, friends, and a core of volunteers, referred to the original floor plans and historic photos to return the Surf to its original glory.

Wallpaper and carpet were removed from the foyer walls to uncover pineapple stenciling, the original murals were uncovered and restored, palm trees were returned to the stage area, and the maple dance floor was sanded, resealed, and waxed. The building reopened just in time for the 1995 Winter Dance Party, where even more volunteers, friends and community members came forward to ensure that the event would continue.

We recall Dean telling the many stories of he and current Maintenance Manager Wayne Christgau on their hands and knees, scraping gunk and grime from under the booths and off the floor. He spoke often of the piles and piles of broken furniture that filled the tunnels under the current building from previous owners and managers, and about hand scrubbing each and every folding chair with hundreds of buckets of water that were heated on a portable

14

Dean was well known for his hard work, honesty and integrity, and all who met him had the utmost respect for his values, his love of family and his unwavering faith – and this Winter Dance Party, we remember and honor one of our greatest supporters.

Without Dean, the Surf Ballroom would not be what it is today. Without Dean’s vision, we would likely not be here each year at the Winter Dance Party celebrating our Three Stars. Without Dean, the community of Clear Lake and the entire music world would be without this historic gem that is considered to be a true American cultural icon.

Dean, the legacies that you have built will not fade away. Thank you for the music and memories!

15

MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY FRI. FEB. 2, 2018 • 11AM featuring DJ RANDY CHESTERMAN

619 BUDDY HOLLY PLACE PRESENTED IN PART BY

16

Schedule of Events “RAVE ON XIV” ART EXHIBIT

Daily during Hours of Operations • FREE Admission MOVIE: LA BAMBA

Thursday, February 1 • 1:15pm Sukup Performing Arts Wing • FREE Admission MOVIE: THE REAL BUDDY HOLLY STORY ROCKUMENTARY

Wednesday, January 31-Saturday, February 3 • 3pm Sukup Performing Arts Wing • FREE Admission

Hours of Operation Tues-Sun 10am-5pm 17 South 4th Street Downtown Clear Lake (641) 357-1998

Rekindle the magic of your youth with this critically acclaimed classis with FREE admission in celebration of FREE the Winter ADMISSION! Dance Party 11 a.m.

Shows at Thursday, Friday, & Saturday

T H E AT R E

www.clearlaketheatre.com 4 N. 4th St., Clear Lake • 357-2414 17

Ritchie Valens

Family Luncheon The Valens family is back with a new event for this year!

Join the Valens family for the Ritchie Valens Family Luncheon Saturday, February 3 from 11a to 2p at the Best Western Holiday Lodge’s Diamond Ballroom located at 2023 7th Ave North, Clear Lake along Hwy 18 near the I-35 entrance and exit ramps.

Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with the Valens Family, enjoy a meal served at noon and dance to the great music of Richie Lee with special guest Tony Halsrud from the Fabulous 50’s Band. Sisters Connie and Irma, along with Ritchie’s older brother Bob, are expected to attend.

The Valens family looks forward to seeing friends from past Winter Dance Parties and meeting new ones this year.

Tickets are available in advance at the Surf Ballroom Box Office or online at surfballroom.com. Cost is $20.

Ritchie’s family invites everyone to join them for good food, great music and lasting fellowship.

Pictured from left to right: Bob, Irma, Mario, Connie

18

Remembering The Hatter Saturday, February 3, 1979 is an important date in Surf Ballroom history. With one man’s vision and a lot of work, a cherished tradition began – “The Buddy Holly Memorial Concert.”

At the time, Darryl Hensley – known on the air as “The Mad Hatter” – was a DJ for local radio station KZEV. Hensley had wondered why no memorial concert had been held in Buddy Holly’s honor, and decided to make an event happen on the 20th anniversary of the fateful last performance of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson.

The event’s beginnings were quite challenging, with the original slate of entertainers cancelling just 6 weeks before the show. The Hatter enlisted the help of fellow DJ Wolfman Jack to help put together a new lineup, with Del Shannon, The Drifters, Jimmy Clanton, The Whitesidewalls and Cricket Nikki Sullivan filling the bill for the first tribute. The first Friday night “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” was held in 1980, when the event expanded to two days. KZEV sponsored and coordinated the event through 1989.

Thank you, Hatter, for the traditions, friendships and memories created by your vision. Because of you, the music lives on at the Surf Ballroom!

Darryl “Hatter” Hensley 19

Feb. 25, 1938-Sept. 27, 2017

We carry a wide selection of 50’s & 60’s MEMORABILIA! vinyl records • t-shirts • skirts saddle shoes • sweat shirts MUCH MORE!

www.classcarclub.com Glassware • Pottery • Records • Post Cards • Books

414 Main Ave, Clear Lake • (641) 357.1642

Welcome Winter Dance Party Fans!

The C.L.A.S.S. Car Club invites you to join us on August 3rd & 4th for our

Annual Friday Night Car Cruise around the lake & Saturday Car Show downtown at City Park.

Hundreds of cars, live music, great food and lots of fun!

A Tire Store ...And A Whole Lot More!

(641) 357-7117

Hwy 18 West, Clear Lake Mon-Fri: 7:30-5:30 • Sat: 8-Noon

Your headquarters for FUN, where you will find everything under the SUN

Boutique, Wine & Vintage Finds WEATHERED ELEMENTS

401 Main Ave. Clear Lake 641.357.0970

Clear Lake Apparel Swim/Summer Toys Sandals Tervis Tumblers Hallmark Gold Crown

LARSONS

MERCANTILE

323 MAIN AVE. ★ Clear Lake ★ 641-357-7544 Monday–Saturday: 9–6 ★ Sunday: 12-4

rocki n’ to Clear Lake Pre-Party Headquarters

Jam Time DJ’s featuring the

Blue Brothers

Saturday, February 4, 2017 • 10am-5pm 307 Main Ave, Clear Lake • 641.357.4629

welcome 50’s Fans!

Hearty Breakfasts

Mon-Sat: 6:30-11am Sun: 7am-12:30pm

Lunch Specials Mon-Sat

Delicious Appetizers & Homemade Soups

Nightly Dinner Specials

5-9pm Tues-Thurs 4:30-10pm Fri & Sat

Open Monday-Saturday 6:30am • Sunday 7am 305 Main Ave, Clear Lake • 641.357.0106

A Clear Lake dining experience that Open from 4pm • 7 days a week Located just north of the Surf Ballroom

619 Buddy Holly Place, Clear Lake (641) 357-1222 • www.surfdistrictgrill.com

• •

•

Retail

Grab & Go Café

Clothing Boutique • Daily Lunch Special Vintage Treasures, • Chocolate Shoppe Ice Furniture, Artwork Cream & Malts Specialty Groceries, • Homemade Baked Goods Wine Cellar Hours: Tues-Sat 8 am - 5 pm

Anna’s Fine Dining & Bar

• Saturday, 11 am – 3 pm: The bar at Anna’s is open for 50’s era cocktails!

• ROK Service • Event Rental Hours: Tues-Thurs 5 - 9 pm Fri & Sat 5-10 pm

8 North Fourth Street, Clear Lake 641-357-4047 • kbemporium@cltel.net • kandbemporiumandannas.com

Celebrate like it’s 1959 during this year’s

WINTER DANCE PARTY Travel back to a time of classic, wholesome food and drink.

Listen to 50s & 60s tunes all weekend while enjoying a memorable meal, a craft beer, or a Manhattan with friends!

Downtown Clear Lake 14 N. 3rd St. 641-357-5030 See our menus, hours, and Winter Dance Party specials online at www.fieldhouseCL.com

Real Smoke. Real Wood.

Real Good.

104 N Weimer, Ventura (641) 829-5100

Welcome Buddy Holly Fans!

418 Main Avenue, Clear Lake 641-357-5241

ABOUT THE SURF BALLROOM One of the jewels of North Iowa, the Surf Ballroom has offered the best in musical entertainment for more than 80 years. The original Surf Ballroom was built in 1933 by Carl Fox and prospered as one of the most popular ballrooms in the Upper Midwest until an untimely fire destroyed the building in 1947. The Surf Ballroom that we know today was rebuilt in 1948, across the street from its original location on North Shore Drive in Clear Lake, Iowa.

Anderson brought in the famed Winter Dance Party Tour. There isn’t anyone who doesn’t know the rest of the story as the fateful plane crash after the show took the lives of Holly, The Bopper and Valens.

Financial problems plagued many of the building’s owners throughout the years. But time after time, North Iowans stepped forward to see that the ballroom would continue to exist. Ownership would change many times between 1947 and 1994, when after years of neglect the doors were closed for a brief period of time. The Dean Snyder family of Clear Lake purchased the ballroom in September of 1994 and restored the building to its original splendor.

The Surf acquired its name and motif from the desire of the original owners to create a ballroom that resembled an ocean beach club...a place for the people of North Iowa to come and escape while enjoying the finest music. The murals on the back walls were hand-painted to depict pounding surf, swaying palm trees, sailboats and lighthouses.

Cyprus wood is used throughout the building and is accented with furnishings of bamboo and rattan to create an ambiance of a south sea island. The stage is surrounded by palm trees and the clouds overhead make it seem as if you were dancing outside under the stars.

Today, the Surf Ballroom & Museum is operated by a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (North Iowa Cultural Center and Museum) whose mission is to preserve, maintain and manage the historic Surf Ballroom property as a center utilized to enhance the quality of life in the North Iowa area by providing cultural, educational and entertainment opportunities.

Additionally, the organization is committed to both the promotion and enhancement of the museum’s quality to ensure that the Surf Ballroom’s display of musical history is available for future generations.

In the ‘30s and ‘40s in order for a big band to make its reputation nationally, it had to play at the Surf. The likes of Count Basie, Duke Ellington and The Dorseys all made regular stops. The 1950s saw the dawning of rock ‘n roll and then manager Carroll Anderson was quick to book into the Surf the hottest names in the business. This was the case on February 2, 1959 when

WINTER DANCE PARTY HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday-Friday: 8a-4p Saturday: 9:30a-4p Doors reopen nightly at 6:30p

24

ABOUT THE WINTER DANCE PARTY 1959 TOUR LINEUP: Buddy Holly Ritchie Valens The Big Bopper Dion and the Belmonts Frankie Sardo Waylon Jennings Tommy Allsup Carl Bunch

1/23/59 Milwaukee, WI 1/24/59 Kenosha, WI 1/25/59 Mankato, MN 1/26/59 Eau Claire, WI 1/27/59 Montevideo, MN 1/28/59 St. Paul, MN 1/29/59 Davenport, IA 1/30/59 Fort Dodge, IA 1/31/59 Duluth, MN 2/1/59 Green Bay, WI 2/2/59 Clear Lake, IA

WHAT IS THE WINTER DANCE PARTY? This annual celebration of the lives and legacies of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson continues to be a very special part of the Surf Ballroom. Throughout the Surf’s history, there is no association stronger than that of their fateful last performance at the Surf Ballroom on February 2, 1959.

Thousands of rock ‘n roll fans from across the globe have made the pilgrimage to Clear Lake during Iowa’s wintry February weather to be part of this event, and hundreds of the finest artists have paid tribute through their performances.

February” in 2004 to the modern four-day festival “Winter Dance Party.” The event, having carved its niche in rock history, is considered by many to be the premier 50s rock ‘n roll event in the country. The internationally renowned event has been covered by NBC, ABC, CBS, Entertainment Tonight, PBS, the BBC, Associated Press, UPI and more than 400 radio stations throughout the United States.

The Winter Dance Party event began after an on-air jest by a Clear Lake radio personality known as “The Mad Hatter” back in 1979 on local Clear Lake radio station KZEV. Though the event was a challenge that first year, it didn’t take long for word of the good times to spread or for the event to sustain itself.

The name of the event has changed several times over the years from a one night concert dubbed “The Tribute to Buddy Holly Concert” at its inception, to a two night concert series called “The Buddy Holly Tribute,” expanding to a 3 day event called “50s in 25

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS THANK YOU FROM BEHIND THE SCENES:

DESIGN/PHOTOGRAPHY:

Committee members work together behind the scenes for many months to plan for this extraordinary annual event. It takes more than 100 volunteers and thousands of hours of preparations to make the Winter Dance Party happen. Though their names are too many to list here, we appreciate each and every minute of their dedication and without them, the event would simply not be possible. Thank you to all of you for the time, talents and energy you put in - what a remarkable team!

Laura Meyer, Lead Designer/Video Production Craig Kienast, Images Photography Cheri Poock, MOD Photography Chris Barragy, Lakeview Photography SPECIAL THANKS ALSO TO THE FOLLOWING FOR MAKING THIS EVENT POSSIBLE: Dean Snyder family, family and friends of Darryl Hensley, the Valens family, City of Clear Lake, CLTel, Movement Solutions, Pritchard Family Auto, Wayne Christgau, Mary Alexander, Margaret Majerczyk, Amy Hopkins, Theiss Shirts, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Hampton Inn & Suites Mason City, Best Western Holiday Lodge, Clear Lake Arts Center, Lake Theater and the entire business community.

PRODUCTION: Shane W. Cooney, Executive Producer Brad Curtis, Production Manager Kevin Hansen, Associate Producer EVENT COORDINATION:

Most importantly, we thank YOU - the family, friends and fans of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson - for supporting us as we celebrate the influence of three bright stars who changed the face of rock ‘n roll. The music and memories live on!

Laurie Lietz, Executive Director/Event Coordinator Jeff Nicholas, President Paul K. Stevenson, Finance Mallory Huffman, Education Tom Thoma, Logistics & Transportation

The 2018 Winter Dance Party is a production of the Surf Ballroom & Museum and the North Iowa Cultural Center & Museum.

Doc Gilbert, Logistics & Transportation Denni Sue Erickson, Director of Hospitality Jenny Hansen, Hospitality

THANK YOU!

Kathy MacNider, Hospitality Roy Hennagir, Director of Guest Safety Margaret Petersen, Merchandise Manager Mary Charlson, Volunteer Coordinator Phyllis Hughes, Volunteer Coordinator Linda Ott, Volunteer Coordinator

"We rent things that move you"

26

COURTESY SHUTTLE SCHEDULES Clear Lake

Mason City

Thursday, February 1 Saturday, February 3 4p-1:30a

Friday, February 2 Saturday, February 3 6p-3a

Shuttle will make stops if guests are waiting outside/at entrance.

:00 :03

:08 :23 :30 :37 :44 :46 :52

AmericInn Americas Best Value Inn / Microtel Inn Best Western Holiday Lodge Surf Ballroom* Super 8 Rumorz Rookies & Sevens (Downtown) VFW (Downtown) Surf Ballroom*

:00 :05 :10 :14 :18 :22 :37

Historic Park Inn Quality Inn Hampton Inn Super 8 Holiday Inn Express Country Inn & Suites Surf Ballroom*

*Please note that the Shuttle will stop at the Surf District Rock ‘n Roll Grill when the Surf Ballroom is closed to the public

27